I Must Betray You: A powerful, heart-breaking thriller based on real events. The winner of the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers' Choice Medal for Writing 2023
Ruta Sepetys
Trapped by an evil dictatorship, will Cristian be forced to betray his family or will he risk everything he loves to resist? A powerful, heart-breaking thriller based on real events.
Winner of the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice Medal for Writing 2023
Cristian has lived his entire life in the grip of a repressive dictatorship. The country is governed by fear. When the secret police blackmail him, Cristian has an impossible choice. Save the life of his sick grandfather by informing on his family, or risk his life – and all of theirs – by resisting?
At 17, Cristian dreams of being free but doesn’t know where to turn. In this climate of constant suspicion, can he trust his best friend, his girlfriend or even his family?
Closely based on the real events of the Romanian Revolution of 1989, this is a powerful, heart-breaking thriller from the author of Salt to the Sea, winner of the Carnegie Medal.
Reviews

Really enjoyed this book. It piqued my interest as a Yoto Carnegie Award winner and I wasn't sure it was going to be my thing after reading the blurb. I'm glad I took a chance on it because it was an absolute page turner that prompted quite a few conversations in my house. Fascinated by the true story behind the book too.
Anonymous 04.01.2024

Very good book, favourite character was Cici. Shows lives on Romanian history which was never presented to the world.
Madam Rose Endeavour 08.08.2023